Ruto, Raila Face Backlash Over Ties to Adani Group’s Indicted Chair Gautam
Kenyans have voiced outrage and demanded explanations from President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga after Gautam Adani, chairperson of the Adani Group, was charged with fraud by U.S. authorities.
Adani allegedly bribed Indian officials with $250 million (KSh 32.4 billion) to secure lucrative solar power contracts.
Before the fraud allegations surfaced, Kenya’s government had pursued deals with the Indian conglomerate, including plans to lease Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Adani Group for 30 years. President Ruto touted the partnership as transformative, but the move faced widespread protests and legal challenges. The High Court ultimately blocked the deal, citing constitutional concerns.
Raila Odinga had defended Adani against corruption accusations, describing him as “clean” and backing Ruto’s airport lease proposal. However, the U.S. indictment has amplified public scepticism about these endorsements and the integrity of the deals.
Prominent lawyer Donald Kipkorir lambasted Kenya’s regulatory bodies for negligence in vetting such contracts, saying, “We have repeatedly demanded that ADANI contracts with JKIA, SHA, KETRACO, and Mombasa Port be cancelled. The US trial will now reveal who was given bribes in Kenya. What will all those who were defending Adani say now? Kenyan regulators must adhere to the law and avoid bending to political whims.”
Public Backlash Intensifies on Ruto, Raila
Kenyans have taken to social media to criticize both Ruto and Raila. One user, @Camundih, commented, “Raila Odinga said Adani ni mweupe kama pamba. Cancel any deal that Ruto may have signed with him immediately.”
Another, @brii_w0rld, accused the government of ignoring public concerns: “The main issue with this government is that they don’t listen. They pretend to know everything and ignore others.”
@Kirwakibe criticized Raila’s remarks, stating, “The sweeping statement from AU hopeful chairman Raila Odinga cleansing Adani of any wrongdoing was embarrassing.”
The scandal has also tarnished Kenya’s international image, with critics urging President Ruto to prioritize accountability and protect national interests.
Adani’s Controversy Deepens
Meanwhile, Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has called for Adani’s arrest, alleging improper benefits from his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Despite the mounting pressure, the scandal’s ripple effects continue to plague both Kenyan and Indian political landscapes.
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Ruto, Raila Face Backlash Over Ties to Adani Group’s Indicted Chair Gautam
